Five Reasons How Drinking Water Helps Your Blood Sugar Readings

It can be challenging to remember to drink 64 ounces of water daily. But for people with diabetes, it makes a difference in managing blood sugar levels.

 

Hydration and Blood Sugar Levels

Water plays a significant role in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. When you are well-hydrated, it helps your body to transport glucose (sugar) efficiently to your cells, where it is utilized for energy. Proper hydration supports the functioning of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Inadequate hydration can disrupt this process and potentially lead to imbalances in blood sugar.

 

The general recommendation is to consume at least eight cups (64 ounces) of water daily, but individual needs may vary. It is important to note that other factors, such as physical activity, weather conditions, and certain medications, may increase the need for more water intake.

 

Prevention of High Blood Sugar

Dehydration can contribute to higher blood sugar levels. When dehydrated, your body tries to conserve water by reducing urine output. However, this can cause a glucose concentration in your bloodstream as your kidneys reabsorb more sugar. As a result, your blood sugar levels may rise.

 

Risk of Hypoglycemia

Dehydration can also increase the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels. When you are dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, which can lead to reduced blood flow to vital organs, including the pancreas. The pancreas produces insulin, and any disruption in blood flow to this organ can affect insulin production and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

 

Impact on Medications

Dehydration can affect the effectiveness and absorption of diabetes medications. For example, some medications may require sufficient water intake to be properly absorbed and utilized by the body. Inadequate hydration can compromise the efficacy of these medications, making blood sugar management more challenging.

 

Thirst and Overeating

Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, leading to overeating. When dehydrated, your body may send signals of thirst, which can be misinterpreted as hunger cues, leading to excessive food intake, disrupting blood sugar control, and potentially causing spikes in blood sugar levels.

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If you have difficulty drinking water, try to drink 8 ounces of water when you wake up and before every meal. This puts you at a third of the daily goal. Most importantly, start drinking more water until 64 ounces becomes a habit. Changing habits does not happen overnight. It takes time to recondition old habits. Be patient and validate yourself for the water you are drinking. Focusing on what works builds confidence and a positive attitude in creating change.

 

The End Game

 Managing blood sugar levels is to prevent diabetes complications. 

Water is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and supporting effective diabetes management. By staying properly hydrated, people with diabetes can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of imbalances, and support the overall well-being of their bodies.

 

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